Hidden Figures

Yesterday, I saw the critically acclaimed film based on a true story, Hidden Figures. Set during the space race between the USA and Russia during the 1960s, the film focuses on the lives and achievement of three African-American women Katherine Goble, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson.  This is the untold story of the brilliant minds behind some of the greatest achievements in NASA, including sending astronaut John Glenn into space.

Bold and honest, Hidden Figures is a story with genuine heart and an impassioned message. The audience is introduced to Katherine Goble as a girl with a gift for math and infinite potential in the field, before propelling us into the movie’s main timeline.  Katherine and her co-workers social limitations are referenced lightly as they make quips about their forced position at the back of a bus.

The adult Katherine is performed with striking intensity by Taraji P. Henson, drawing a sense of empathy from the viewer as she stumbles through an often hostile work environment.  Montages such as Katherine’s daily, half a mile walk from her workplace to the “coloured bathrooms” highlights the everyday inequalities in society.

The prolonged effort and hurt conveyed in Taraji Henson’s acting, results in a powerful release challenging the people around her not to unthinkingly accept these policies. The frequently repeated phrase, “that’s just the way things are,” is challenged in many ways throughout the movie. The film isn’t the least bit subtle about drawing parallels between NASA breaking down scientific barriers, and these women breaking down social barriers. However, the movie tells this little-known story with such passion, that its directness is actually welcome.

From left to right: Janelle Monae, Taraji P. Henson and Octavia Spencer

Towards the end of the movie, the pace starts to lag somewhat because of a heavy focus on the technical aspects of the NASA flights. However, the touching and fun dynamic between the three leads keeps the audience engaged. Octavia Spencer portrays the unbendable Dorothy Vaughan with quiet self-assurance. Singer and newcomer to the silver-screen, Janelle Monae brings a wit and strength to potential mechanical engineer Mary Jackson.  Together with Taraji Henson, they move the plot forward with determination and smarts.

Hidden Figures is a no-nonsense, bold and uplifting tale that brings to light the struggles and achievements of people who were treated with little dignity or respect. This movie is looks at a time in the past, but is still painfully relevant. It’s a powerful cinematic experience, and I highly recommend it.